Exploring the Beijing Summer Palace: A Comprehensive Map Guide

The Beijing Summer Palace, known as the Yiheyuan, is a vast ensemble of lakes, gardens, and palaces in Beijing, China. Covering an area of 2.9 square kilometers, it is one of the largest and best-preserved royal parks in China. This article will provide a detailed exploration of the Summer Palace, including its historical background, key features, and a comprehensive map guide to help visitors navigate this magnificent site.

Historical Background

The Beijing Summer Palace was originally built in 1750 during the Qing Dynasty by Emperor Qianlong. It served as a summer retreat for the imperial family, providing a serene escape from the heat of Beijing. The palace complex was designed to reflect traditional Chinese garden design principles, combining natural landscapes with architectural elements.

The Summer Palace suffered significant damage during the Second Opium War in 1860 but was later restored. Its current layout largely reflects the renovations carried out during the reign of Empress Dowager Cixi, who used the palace as her summer residence from 1888 until her death in 1908. The site was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998 due to its outstanding universal value.

Key Features

1. Kunming Lake: Covering about three-quarters of the Summer Palace’s total area, Kunming Lake is a man-made lake that provides a picturesque backdrop to the palace complex. Visitors can enjoy boat rides on the lake, with views of the Tower of Buddhist Incense and Seventeen-Arch Bridge.

2. Longevity Hill: This hill offers a panoramic view of the entire Summer Palace. The Hall of Benevolence and Longevity and the Tower of Buddhist Incense are located here, providing insights into the architectural grandeur and religious significance of the palace.

3. The Long Corridor: Spanning over 700 meters, this covered walkway is adorned with thousands of paintings depicting scenes from Chinese folklore, history, and daily life. It connects major parts of the palace and offers a shaded stroll with beautiful scenery.

4. The Marble Boat: This unique structure, also known as the Boat of Purity and Ease, is a lakeside pavilion built entirely from marble. It serves as a symbol of the Qing Dynasty’s opulence and provides a picturesque spot for visitors.

5. The Seventeen-Arch Bridge: This bridge is renowned for its unique design and scenic beauty. Spanning Kunming Lake, it features 17 arches and offers a splendid view of the surrounding landscapes.

Map Guide

To navigate the Beijing Summer Palace effectively, it’s essential to understand its layout. Here is a detailed guide to the main areas and attractions within the palace grounds:

1. East Gate (Qingyiyuan Gate): The main entrance to the Summer Palace. From here, visitors can enter the palace grounds and start their exploration.

2. West Gate (Yiheyuan Gate): An alternative entrance that provides access to the western areas of the palace, including the Garden of Virtue and Harmony.

3. Central Axis: This axis runs from the East Gate to the Long Corridor and provides a central route through the Summer Palace. Key attractions along this route include the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, Hall of Joyful Longevity, and the Tower of Buddhist Incense.

4. Kunming Lake Area: The northern part of the Summer Palace is dominated by Kunming Lake. Major features here include the Seventeen-Arch Bridge, Marble Boat, and Pavilion of the Fragrance of the Buddha.

5. Longevity Hill Area: The southern part of the palace features Longevity Hill. Key sites include the Tower of Buddhist Incense, the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, and various pavilions and gardens.

6. The Long Corridor: This corridor runs along the northern edge of Kunming Lake and connects several important areas, including the Hall of Joyful Longevity and the Tower of Buddhist Incense.

7. Garden of Virtue and Harmony: Located to the west of the central axis, this garden features traditional Chinese landscaping and several historic structures.

Visitor Tips

1. Plan Your Route: Given the expansive nature of the Summer Palace, it’s advisable to plan your route in advance to ensure you visit all key attractions.

2. Wear Comfortable Shoes: The Summer Palace involves considerable walking, so wear comfortable footwear.

3. Bring Water and Snacks: While there are food stalls and shops within the palace grounds, bringing your own water and snacks can be convenient.

4. Consider a Guided Tour: For a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural significance of the Summer Palace, consider joining a guided tour.

5. Check the Weather: The Summer Palace is best enjoyed on clear days. Check the weather forecast before your visit to avoid rainy or extremely hot conditions.

Conclusion

The Beijing Summer Palace is a remarkable example of imperial garden design and a testament to China’s rich cultural heritage. With its stunning landscapes, historic structures, and serene atmosphere, it offers an unforgettable experience for visitors. By using this map guide, you can navigate the palace efficiently and make the most of your visit to one of Beijing’s most treasured landmarks.